How Are Geriatric Social Workers Helpful for the Elderly?

By Ted Holmgren, 9:00 am on April 24, 2017

Adjusting to the senior years is difficult for many older adults and their families. Geriatric social workers can help the elderly manage several financial, health, and social problems caused by aging.

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. In Ahwatukee Foothills, families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Here are some ways geriatric social workers help aging adults.

Help Seniors Remain Independent

Loss of independence can lead to cognitive decline in seniors. However, a geriatric social worker can help your loved one find social services and professional caregivers. The social worker can also ensure your loved one enjoys a safe, healthy life and maintains a sense of independence. Knowing there is someone to keep your senior loved one safe from problems such as fraud, loneliness, and depression can give you peace of mind.

Offer Financial Assistance

Many seniors live on a fixed income and find it difficult to seek employment, which limits the amount of money they can spend on necessities and wants. However, geriatric social workers have access to several private and public organizations that allot money each year to help seniors who are in need. A social worker can help your loved one find the necessary funding and even assist him or her throughout the application process.

Some of the financial resources geriatric social workers have access to include:

Healthcare costs

Prescription drugs

Mortgage payments

Transportation

Utility bills

Legal issues

Find High-Quality Care

As your loved one ages, he or she may require care at different levels. A geriatric social worker can examine your loved one’s needs and help him or her find the best care solutions, including access to high-quality physical therapists, doctors, specialists, and in-home care providers. A geriatric social worker can also find programs that help seniors manage cognitive decline.

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common types of cognitive decline prevalent in aging adults. Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who do not have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. For trusted Ahwatukee Foothills Alzheimer’s care, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.

If your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, the Ahwatukee Foothills, AZ, 24-hour care professionals at Home Care Assistance are here to help. Our proprietary Balanced Care Method was designed to promote longevity by encouraging seniors to focus on healthy eating, regular exercise, mental engagement, and other important lifestyle factors. To learn about our holistic approach to senior in-home care, call one of our professional Care Managers at 480-448-6215 today.